The Royal Commission for Saudi Arabia’s AlUla Province is actively seeking to attract major global production companies to film in its territories.
This effort is being carried out through the agency of Film AlUla, established in 2020, which has been entrusted with the task of promoting local, regional, and international film and television productions in the region, as well as providing support.
In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Executive Director of Film AlUla Charlene Deleon-Jones emphasized that the goal is to establish a significant gateway and destination in AlUla for talented and ambitious filmmakers and producers.
Furthermore, there are plans underway to soon open a state-of-the-art production facility that offers comprehensive services, including a 30,000 square foot filming location.
Deleon-Jones pointed out that the agency has so far hosted 694 days of production for a number of films.
Among them are the action film “Kandahar,” starring Gerard Butler, and the drama film “Karaz,” directed by the Russo brothers and featuring Tom Holland.
Additionally, there is “Nora,” a film by Saudi director Tawfiq Al Zaidi, which is the first Saudi narrative film shot in the province with a team of Saudi actors, with over 40% of the crew being local talents from the kingdom.
Regarding television productions filmed in AlUla, they include the British series “Expedition” featuring Steve Backshall, as well as National Geographic documentaries.
Additionally, commercial advertisements, promotional presentations, photo shoots, and short films have also been produced in the region.
Deleon-Jones further added that work is underway on more international productions, including significant films from Hollywood, Bollywood, and South Korea, which will be announced within the next two months.
Regarding Film AlUla’s strategy to attract filmmakers to the region, the executive director affirmed that the agency continues to work on developing an attractive and supportive environment for film production, backed by strong infrastructure, high-quality services, and other encouraging factors.
Deleon-Jones also noted that the film industry is an investment and commitment, so the agency strives to give all diverse stories and narratives a fair chance to come to fruition in AlUla.
Furthermore, she revealed that the agency offers a 40% cash rebate as an incentive for all types of productions in AlUla, along with providing comprehensive logistical support.
Deleon-Jones mentioned that production works that employ talents and workforce from Saudi Arabia, showcasing the culture, history, and natural beauty of AlUla can also benefit from in-kind incentives, as well as financial support by covering travel and accommodation expenses.
Regarding logistics, Deleon-Jones confirmed that Film AlUla has a team of experts on the ground who can be contacted at any time to support production operations.
The team provides assistance in identifying and resolving issues, from the pre-production stage to delivery.
They also help with obtaining the cash rebate, as well as handling other administrative tasks such as production regulations, customs clearance, visa applications, filming permits, location selection, and talent recruitment.
Deleon-Jones touched upon infrastructure and revealed the nearing completion of the first phase of constructing a state-of-the-art production facility that offers comprehensive services.
This facility includes a 30,000 square foot soundstage equipped with advanced audio equipment, an outdoor filming location, production support buildings, workshops, warehouses, a recording studio, training and rehearsal spaces, a cafeteria, event space, and an administrative building.
The filming area will be located just 14 minutes away from the accommodation buildings of Film AlUla, with a dedicated team of professionals.
Accommodation options include 300 high-quality residential units and fully furnished living spaces, with private office areas for short and long-term stays specifically designed for film productions.
Additionally, there will be a selection of upscale hotels and mid-range accommodation options available.
